Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method implemented by a first communication device that is capable of duplex transmissions, wherein duplex transmissions involve simultaneously transmitting and receiving via a same wireless frequency band, the method comprising: receiving, at the first communication device, duplex transmission permission information corresponding to a transmit opportunity period (TXOP) established by a second communication device, the duplex transmission permission information indicating that the second communication device permits a duplex transmission during the TXOP and while the second communication device transmits, wherein the duplex transmission permission information is received from the second communication device via a wireless transmission, and wherein the duplex transmission permission information is included in a media access control layer (MAC) protocol data unit (MPDU); in response to receiving the duplex transmission permission information, determining, at the first communication device, that the first communication device is permitted to perform the duplex transmission during the TXOP; receiving, at the first communication device, a first packet from the second communication device during the TXOP, wherein the first packet spans a wireless communication channel; and transmitting, by the first communication device, a second packet while the first communication device is receiving the first packet, and wherein the second packet is transmitted in the wireless communication channel.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for enabling simultaneous transmission and reception (duplex communication) within the same frequency band during a transmit opportunity period (TXOP). The problem addressed is the inefficiency of traditional half-duplex communication, where devices cannot transmit and receive at the same time, leading to underutilized bandwidth. The method is implemented by a first communication device capable of duplex transmissions, which involves transmitting and receiving data simultaneously over the same wireless frequency band. The process begins when the first device receives duplex transmission permission information from a second communication device. This permission is included in a media access control (MAC) layer protocol data unit (MPDU) and indicates that the second device allows duplex communication during the TXOP while it is actively transmitting. Upon receiving this permission, the first device confirms it is allowed to perform duplex communication during the TXOP. During the TXOP, the first device receives a first packet from the second device, which spans the wireless communication channel. Concurrently, the first device transmits a second packet over the same channel. This simultaneous transmission and reception improves spectral efficiency by allowing bidirectional communication without waiting for separate time slots. The method leverages existing MAC layer protocols to signal permission, ensuring compatibility with standard wireless communication frameworks.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the duplex transmission permission information is received by the first communication device in a third packet prior to receiving the first packet, wherein the third packet includes the MPDU having the duplex transmission permission information.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing duplex transmission permissions in a network. The problem addressed is the need for efficient coordination between communication devices to enable simultaneous transmission and reception (duplex) operations, reducing latency and improving throughput. The method involves a first communication device receiving duplex transmission permission information in a third packet before receiving a first packet. The third packet contains a Media Access Control Protocol Data Unit (MPDU) that includes this permission information. The first packet, which is received after the third packet, contains data for transmission. The first communication device then transmits a second packet to a second communication device, where the second packet includes the data from the first packet. This transmission occurs based on the duplex transmission permission information received earlier. The duplex transmission permission information allows the first communication device to determine whether it can transmit and receive data simultaneously, enabling more efficient use of the communication channel. The method ensures that the first communication device has the necessary permissions before transmitting, reducing collisions and improving network performance. The use of MPDU in the third packet provides a structured way to convey this permission information, ensuring reliable communication between devices.
3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the third packet is received by the first communication device prior to the TXOP.
A method for managing communication in a wireless network involves coordinating data transmission between multiple devices to optimize bandwidth usage and reduce collisions. The method addresses the problem of inefficient channel access in wireless networks, where devices may contend for transmission opportunities, leading to delays and wasted bandwidth. The solution involves a first communication device initiating a transmission opportunity (TXOP) by sending a first packet to a second communication device, which then sends a second packet to a third communication device. The third communication device responds with a third packet, which the first communication device receives before the TXOP begins. This pre-TXOP reception of the third packet allows the first communication device to adjust its transmission parameters or schedule, ensuring smoother and more efficient communication. The method may also include additional steps such as the first communication device sending a fourth packet to the second communication device, which then forwards it to the third communication device. This ensures that all devices in the network are synchronized and aware of the transmission schedule, further reducing the likelihood of collisions and improving overall network performance. The method is particularly useful in environments where multiple devices compete for limited bandwidth, such as in Wi-Fi networks or other wireless communication systems.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the duplex transmission permission information is included in the first packet, and wherein the first packet includes the MPDU having the duplex transmission permission information.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing duplex transmission permissions in packet-based communication. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable signaling of duplex transmission permissions between devices to enable simultaneous bidirectional communication while avoiding interference. The method involves transmitting a first packet containing duplex transmission permission information, which indicates whether a device is permitted to transmit and receive data simultaneously. The first packet includes a Media Access Control Protocol Data Unit (MPDU) that carries this permission information. The MPDU is a structured data frame used in wireless communication protocols to encapsulate control or data information. The duplex transmission permission information allows devices to coordinate their transmission and reception operations dynamically, ensuring proper synchronization and reducing collisions in shared communication channels. The method ensures that devices can quickly determine their transmission rights without requiring additional signaling, improving communication efficiency. By embedding the permission information directly in the MPDU of the first packet, the system minimizes overhead and latency, making it suitable for high-speed wireless networks. This approach is particularly useful in environments where devices must frequently switch between transmission and reception modes, such as in wireless local area networks (WLANs) or cellular networks. The invention enhances reliability and throughput by reducing the likelihood of data collisions and improving resource utilization.
5. The method of claim 4 , wherein: the MPDU is a first occurring MPDU in an aggregate MPDU (A-MPDU) that includes multiple MPDUs; and the first packet includes the A-MPDU.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving the handling of aggregate MAC Protocol Data Units (A-MPDUs) in high-throughput environments. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in processing A-MPDUs, which contain multiple individual MPDUs, leading to delays and errors in data transmission. The invention describes a method for transmitting and processing A-MPDUs in a wireless network. When an A-MPDU is transmitted, it includes multiple MPDUs concatenated together to improve efficiency. The method focuses on the first MPDU within the A-MPDU, ensuring it is correctly identified and processed. A packet containing the A-MPDU is transmitted, and the receiving device extracts the first MPDU from the A-MPDU for initial processing. This ensures proper synchronization and error detection before subsequent MPDUs are processed. The method enhances reliability by prioritizing the first MPDU, reducing the likelihood of transmission errors affecting the entire A-MPDU. This approach is particularly useful in high-density wireless networks where multiple devices compete for bandwidth, ensuring efficient and accurate data delivery. The invention improves throughput and reduces latency by optimizing the handling of aggregated data units.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the duplex transmission permission information is included in a MAC header of the MPDU.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving data transmission efficiency in duplex communication modes. The problem addressed is the need for efficient signaling of transmission permissions in duplex communication, where devices may simultaneously transmit and receive data. The invention provides a method for including duplex transmission permission information in the MAC (Medium Access Control) header of an MPDU (MAC Protocol Data Unit). This allows devices to quickly determine whether they are permitted to transmit or receive data in a given time slot, reducing latency and improving throughput. The MAC header modification ensures that transmission permissions are conveyed without requiring additional signaling overhead, optimizing bandwidth usage. The method is particularly useful in high-density wireless networks where efficient use of available spectrum is critical. By embedding permission information directly in the MAC header, the system avoids the need for separate control messages, streamlining communication and reducing processing delays. This approach enhances reliability and reduces the risk of transmission collisions, making it suitable for applications requiring low-latency, high-efficiency data exchange. The invention is applicable to various wireless standards, including Wi-Fi and other IEEE 802.11-based systems, where duplex communication is increasingly important for supporting emerging applications like real-time video streaming and virtual reality.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein: the MPDU includes a MAC header and a MAC data portion; and the duplex transmission permission information is included in the MAC data portion.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing duplex transmission permissions in a medium access control (MAC) protocol data unit (MPDU). The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable transmission of duplex permission information within a wireless network, particularly in systems where devices must coordinate transmission and reception operations. The method involves structuring an MPDU to include both a MAC header and a MAC data portion. The duplex transmission permission information, which indicates whether a device is permitted to transmit or receive data, is embedded within the MAC data portion rather than the header. This approach allows for flexible and scalable transmission of permission data, ensuring that devices can dynamically adjust their transmission modes based on network conditions. The MAC header may contain standard addressing and control fields, while the MAC data portion carries the duplex permission information alongside other payload data. This design enables seamless integration with existing MAC protocols while providing the necessary control information for duplex operation. The method ensures that permission data is transmitted reliably and efficiently, reducing overhead and improving overall network performance.
8. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: determining, at the first communication device, whether the first communication device has data buffered for the second communication device; wherein determining that the first communication device is permitted to perform the duplex transmission during the TXOP is further in response to determining that the first communication device has data buffered for the second communication device.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing duplex transmission during a transmission opportunity (TXOP) in a network. The problem addressed is inefficient use of communication resources when a device holds a TXOP but lacks data to transmit, leading to wasted bandwidth and delays. The method involves a first communication device, such as a wireless access point or station, obtaining a TXOP to transmit data. Before performing duplex transmission (simultaneous transmission and reception), the device checks whether it has buffered data intended for a second communication device. If data is buffered, the device proceeds with duplex transmission during the TXOP, allowing it to send and receive data concurrently. This ensures that the TXOP is utilized only when necessary, improving network efficiency by reducing idle periods and optimizing bandwidth usage. The method may also involve coordinating with the second device to ensure proper synchronization and avoid collisions during duplex transmission. The invention enhances data throughput and reduces latency in wireless networks by dynamically adjusting transmission behavior based on buffered data status.
9. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: determining, at the first communication device, whether the first communication device has data buffered for the second communication device; determining, at the first communication device, whether the first communication device has data buffered for a third communication device; and determining, at the first communication device, that the second packet is to be transmitted to the third communication device; wherein determining that the first communication device is permitted to perform the duplex transmission during the TXOP is further in response to i) determining that the first communication device does not have data buffered for the second communication device, and i) determining that the first communication device has data buffered for the third communication device.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing duplex transmissions during a transmission opportunity (TXOP) in a network where multiple devices share communication channels. The problem addressed is optimizing channel usage by allowing a communication device to transmit and receive data simultaneously (duplex transmission) when certain conditions are met, improving efficiency in data exchange. The method involves a first communication device determining whether it has buffered data for a second communication device and for a third communication device. If the first device has no data buffered for the second device but has data buffered for the third device, it may transmit a packet (the second packet) to the third device while also receiving data from the second device during the same TXOP. This ensures that the channel is used efficiently by avoiding idle periods when the first device could otherwise transmit or receive data. The decision to permit duplex transmission is based on the buffered data status for the involved devices, ensuring that the transmission does not disrupt ongoing communications with the second device. This approach enhances network throughput by dynamically adjusting transmission strategies based on real-time data buffering conditions.
10. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: generating, at the first communication device, the second packet such that the second packet does not include an indication that the second packet is to be immediately acknowledged; wherein the second packet, when transmitted, does not include the indication that the second packet is to be immediately acknowledged.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving efficiency in packet transmission by reducing unnecessary acknowledgment overhead. In wireless networks, devices exchange packets, and typically, each transmitted packet requires an acknowledgment (ACK) from the receiving device to confirm successful delivery. However, in certain scenarios, such as high-latency or low-priority transmissions, immediate ACKs can create inefficiencies by consuming bandwidth and processing resources without significant benefit. The invention addresses this problem by modifying packet transmission behavior. A first communication device generates a second packet for transmission, where the second packet is configured to omit an explicit indication that it requires an immediate acknowledgment. This means the receiving device, upon receiving the second packet, does not generate or transmit an immediate ACK in response. By avoiding unnecessary ACKs, the system reduces communication overhead, conserves bandwidth, and improves overall network efficiency, particularly in scenarios where immediate feedback is not critical. The method applies to any communication protocol where acknowledgment mechanisms are used, such as Wi-Fi, cellular networks, or other wireless standards. The omission of the ACK indication is implemented at the packet generation stage, ensuring that the transmitted packet inherently lacks the requirement for an immediate response. This approach is particularly useful for non-critical or delay-tolerant data transmissions.
11. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: performing, at the first communication device, a clear channel assessment (CCA) operation prior to receiving the first packet from the TXOP initiator to determine whether a wireless medium is busy during a time period immediately prior to a beginning of reception of the first packet; wherein determining that the first communication device is permitted to perform the duplex transmission during the TXOP is further in response to determining that the wireless medium is not busy during the time period immediately prior to the beginning of reception of the first packet.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for enabling duplex transmission during a transmission opportunity (TXOP) in a wireless network. The problem addressed is ensuring efficient and reliable communication by determining whether a communication device can perform duplex transmission during a TXOP while avoiding interference. The method involves a first communication device receiving a first packet from a TXOP initiator, where the first packet indicates that the first communication device is permitted to perform duplex transmission during the TXOP. Before receiving the first packet, the first communication device performs a clear channel assessment (CCA) operation to check if the wireless medium is busy during a time period immediately before the packet's reception. If the wireless medium is not busy during this time, the first communication device is allowed to perform duplex transmission during the TXOP. This ensures that the device only transmits when the channel is clear, reducing collisions and improving communication efficiency. The method also includes the first communication device transmitting a second packet to the TXOP initiator during the TXOP, where the second packet includes information indicating that the first communication device is permitted to perform duplex transmission during the TXOP. This allows the TXOP initiator to manage the TXOP more effectively. The method further involves the first communication device receiving a third packet from the TXOP initiator during the TXOP, where the third packet includes information indicating that the first communication device is permitted to perform duplex transmission during the TXOP. This ensures continuous and coordinated communication between the devices.
12. An apparatus, comprising: a network interface device associated with a first communication device, wherein the network interface device is capable of duplex transmissions, wherein duplex transmissions involve simultaneously transmitting and receiving via a same wireless frequency band, and wherein the network interface device includes one or more integrated circuit (IC) devices configured to: receive duplex transmission permission information corresponding to a transmit opportunity period (TXOP) established by a second communication device, the duplex transmission permission information indicating that the second communication device permits a duplex transmission during the TXOP and while the second communication device transmits, wherein the duplex transmission permission information is received from the second communication device via a wireless transmission, and wherein the duplex transmission permission information is included in a media access control layer (MAC) protocol data unit (MPDU), in response to receiving the duplex transmission permission information, determine that the network interface device is permitted to perform the duplex transmission during the TXOP, receive a first packet from the second communication device during the TXOP, wherein the first packet spans a wireless communication channel, and transmit a second packet while the first communication device is receiving the first packet, and wherein the second packet is transmitted in the wireless communication channel.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically enabling simultaneous transmission and reception (duplex communication) within the same frequency band during a transmit opportunity period (TXOP). The problem addressed is the inefficiency of traditional half-duplex communication, where devices must alternate between transmitting and receiving, leading to underutilized bandwidth. The apparatus includes a network interface device for a first communication device, capable of duplex transmissions. The device comprises one or more integrated circuits (ICs) configured to receive duplex transmission permission information from a second communication device. This permission is conveyed via a wireless transmission within a media access control (MAC) layer protocol data unit (MPDU) and indicates that the second device allows duplex communication during its TXOP. Upon receiving this permission, the network interface device determines it can perform duplex transmission. During the TXOP, the device receives a first packet from the second device while simultaneously transmitting a second packet over the same wireless channel. This allows both devices to communicate more efficiently by overlapping transmissions and receptions, improving bandwidth utilization. The solution is particularly useful in high-density wireless networks where efficient spectrum use is critical.
13. A method implemented by a first communication device that is capable of duplex transmissions, wherein duplex transmissions involve simultaneously transmitting and receiving via a same wireless frequency band, the method comprising: transmitting, by the first communication device, duplex transmission permission information corresponding to a transmit opportunity period (TXOP) established by the first communication device, the duplex transmission permission information indicating that the first communication device permits a duplex transmission during the TXOP and while the first communication device transmits, wherein the duplex transmission permission information is transmitted to a second communication device via a wireless transmission, and wherein the duplex transmission permission information is included in a media access control layer (MAC) protocol data unit (MPDU); transmitting, by the first communication device, a first packet to the second communication device during the TXOP, wherein the first packet spans a wireless communication channel; and receiving, at the first communication device, an acknowledgment packet from the second communication device, wherein the acknowledgment packet acknowledges receipt of the first packet.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for enabling duplex transmissions where a device can simultaneously transmit and receive data over the same wireless frequency band. The problem addressed is the need for efficient communication in environments where devices must coordinate transmissions to avoid interference while maximizing data throughput. The method involves a first communication device, capable of duplex transmissions, establishing a transmit opportunity period (TXOP) and transmitting duplex transmission permission information to a second communication device. This permission information, included in a media access control (MAC) protocol data unit (MPDU), indicates that the first device allows the second device to perform duplex transmissions during the TXOP while the first device is actively transmitting. The first device then sends a first packet to the second device, which spans the wireless communication channel. The second device acknowledges receipt of the first packet by sending an acknowledgment packet back to the first device. This approach ensures that both devices can transmit and receive data simultaneously without interference, improving communication efficiency in wireless networks. The method leverages MAC layer signaling to coordinate duplex operations, ensuring proper synchronization and data integrity.
14. The method of claim 13 , wherein the first communication device transmits the duplex transmission permission information in a second packet prior to transmitting the first packet, wherein the second packet includes the MPDU having the duplex transmission permission information.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing duplex transmission permissions between devices. The problem addressed is the need for efficient coordination of transmission rights in wireless networks to prevent collisions and improve data throughput. The method involves a first communication device transmitting duplex transmission permission information in a second packet before sending a first packet. The second packet contains a Media Access Control Protocol Data Unit (MPDU) that includes the duplex transmission permission information. This allows the receiving device to prepare for the upcoming transmission, reducing latency and improving synchronization. The duplex transmission permission information may include details such as transmission timing, channel access rights, or priority levels, enabling coordinated communication between devices. The method ensures that devices can transmit and receive data without interference, enhancing network efficiency and reliability. The approach is particularly useful in high-density wireless environments where multiple devices compete for channel access. By pre-announcing transmission permissions, the system minimizes contention and optimizes resource utilization. The invention improves upon existing protocols by integrating permission signaling directly into packet structures, streamlining the coordination process.
15. The method of claim 14 , wherein the second packet is transmitted by the first communication device prior to the TXOP.
A method for wireless communication involves managing packet transmission in a network to improve efficiency and reduce collisions. The method addresses the problem of contention-based access in wireless networks, where multiple devices compete for transmission opportunities, leading to inefficiencies and collisions. The method includes a first communication device transmitting a first packet to a second communication device, where the first packet includes a request for a transmission opportunity (TXOP). The second communication device then transmits a second packet to the first communication device, granting the requested TXOP. The second packet is transmitted by the second communication device prior to the actual TXOP, allowing the first communication device to prepare for data transmission during the allocated TXOP. This pre-TXOP transmission of the second packet ensures timely coordination between devices, reducing delays and improving overall network performance. The method may also include additional steps such as the first communication device transmitting data during the granted TXOP and the second communication device acknowledging receipt of the data. The method is particularly useful in wireless local area networks (WLANs) where efficient use of the shared medium is critical.
16. The method of claim 13 , wherein the duplex transmission permission information is included in the first packet, and wherein the first packet includes the MPDU having the duplex transmission permission information.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing duplex transmission permissions in packet-based networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable communication in environments where devices must coordinate transmission and reception to avoid collisions and optimize bandwidth usage. The method involves transmitting a first packet from a first device to a second device, where the first packet includes a Media Access Control Protocol Data Unit (MPDU) containing duplex transmission permission information. This information indicates whether the second device is permitted to transmit data simultaneously with the first device, enabling full-duplex communication. The first packet is structured to include this permission data, allowing the second device to determine its transmission rights without additional signaling. The method ensures that the duplex transmission permission is clearly communicated within the packet structure, reducing overhead and latency. This approach improves communication efficiency by dynamically adjusting transmission permissions based on network conditions and device capabilities, minimizing collisions and maximizing throughput in wireless networks. The solution is particularly useful in high-density environments where efficient spectrum utilization is critical.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein: the MPDU is a first occurring MPDU in an aggregate MPDU (A-MPDU) that includes multiple MPDUs; and the first packet includes the A-MPDU.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for handling aggregate medium access control protocol data units (A-MPDUs) in wireless networks. The problem addressed is the efficient transmission and processing of multiple MPDUs within an A-MPDU to improve data throughput and reduce overhead in wireless communications. The method involves transmitting a first packet containing an A-MPDU, which includes multiple MPDUs. The first packet is sent to a receiving device, which processes the A-MPDU to extract the individual MPDUs. The method ensures that the first MPDU within the A-MPDU is identified and processed correctly, allowing the receiving device to reconstruct the original data packets. This approach optimizes the transmission of multiple data units in a single frame, reducing the number of individual transmissions and improving overall network efficiency. The invention also includes mechanisms for error detection and correction, ensuring that any corrupted MPDUs within the A-MPDU are identified and handled appropriately. The receiving device may request retransmission of specific MPDUs if errors are detected, further enhancing reliability. This method is particularly useful in high-speed wireless networks where minimizing transmission overhead is critical for maintaining performance.
18. The method of claim 13 , wherein the duplex transmission permission information is included in a MAC header of the MPDU.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing duplex transmission permissions in media access control (MAC) layer protocols. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable signaling of duplex transmission permissions in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios where devices must coordinate uplink and downlink transmissions to avoid collisions and optimize bandwidth usage. The method involves embedding duplex transmission permission information directly into the MAC header of a MAC Protocol Data Unit (MPDU). This allows transmitting devices to signal whether they are permitted to transmit or receive data in a given time slot, enabling dynamic and adaptive duplex communication. The duplex transmission permission information may include indicators for full-duplex, half-duplex, or other transmission modes, as well as timing or scheduling data to coordinate transmissions between devices. The method ensures that devices can quickly and accurately determine their transmission rights without requiring additional signaling overhead, improving efficiency and reducing latency. By integrating the permission information into the MAC header, the system minimizes the need for separate control messages, streamlining communication and reducing the risk of miscoordination. This approach is particularly useful in high-density wireless networks where efficient spectrum utilization is critical.
19. The method of claim 13 , wherein: the MPDU includes a MAC header and a MAC data portion; and the duplex transmission permission information is included in the MAC data portion.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing duplex transmission permissions in a network. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable transmission of duplex permission information within a Media Access Control (MAC) Protocol Data Unit (MPDU) to enable simultaneous bidirectional communication between devices. The method involves transmitting an MPDU that includes a MAC header and a MAC data portion. The MAC header contains standard control information for routing and processing the MPDU, while the MAC data portion carries the actual payload. The duplex transmission permission information, which indicates whether a device is allowed to transmit and receive data simultaneously, is embedded within the MAC data portion of the MPDU. This allows devices to dynamically adjust their transmission modes based on network conditions and permissions, improving communication efficiency and reducing latency. The method ensures that duplex permission information is transmitted in a structured and standardized format, enabling seamless integration with existing wireless communication protocols. By including this information in the MAC data portion, the method avoids disrupting the MAC header's standard structure, maintaining compatibility with current network infrastructure while enhancing functionality. This approach is particularly useful in high-density wireless networks where efficient use of bandwidth and low-latency communication are critical.
20. The method of claim 13 , wherein: the acknowledgment packet received from the second communication device is a first acknowledgment packet; the method further comprises: transmitting, by the first communication device, a second acknowledgment packet to the second communication device while the first communication device is receiving the first acknowledgment packet; and the second acknowledgment packet is transmitted in the wireless communication channel.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving efficiency in acknowledgment packet transmission between devices. The problem addressed is the delay and inefficiency in traditional acknowledgment mechanisms, where devices wait to receive an acknowledgment before sending their own, leading to increased latency and reduced throughput. The method involves a first communication device receiving a first acknowledgment packet from a second communication device. While receiving this first acknowledgment packet, the first communication device simultaneously transmits a second acknowledgment packet to the second communication device. Both acknowledgment packets are sent over the same wireless communication channel, enabling bidirectional communication without waiting for the full reception of the incoming acknowledgment. This overlapping transmission and reception process reduces latency and improves data transfer efficiency in wireless networks. The method is particularly useful in high-speed wireless communication systems where minimizing delay is critical, such as in 5G or Wi-Fi networks. By allowing acknowledgment packets to be sent and received concurrently, the system avoids unnecessary waiting periods, enhancing overall performance. The approach leverages the wireless channel's capacity to handle simultaneous transmissions, optimizing resource utilization and reducing communication overhead.
21. The method of claim 20 , wherein: the second packet includes an indication that the first communication device is to immediately acknowledge the second packet; and the first communication device transmits the second acknowledgment packet while the first communication device is receiving the first acknowledgment packet in response to the indication in the second packet that the first communication device is to immediately acknowledge the second packet.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving efficiency in packet transmission and acknowledgment processes. The problem addressed is the delay in acknowledging received packets, which can reduce throughput and increase latency in high-speed communication networks. The method involves a first communication device receiving a second packet from a second communication device. The second packet includes an explicit indication that the first device must immediately acknowledge its receipt, even while still receiving the first acknowledgment packet in response to a prior transmission. This allows the first device to transmit a second acknowledgment packet concurrently with receiving the first acknowledgment, reducing overall latency. The second packet may contain data or control information, and the acknowledgment mechanism ensures reliable communication by confirming receipt without waiting for the full reception of the first acknowledgment. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where low-latency acknowledgments are critical, such as in real-time applications or high-speed data transfers. The method optimizes communication efficiency by minimizing delays in acknowledgment processes, improving overall system performance.
22. An apparatus, comprising: a network interface device associated with a first communication device, wherein the network interface device is capable of duplex transmissions, wherein duplex transmissions involve simultaneously transmitting and receiving via a same wireless frequency band, and wherein the network interface device includes one or more integrated circuit (IC) devices configured to: transmit duplex transmission permission information corresponding to a transmit opportunity period (TXOP) established by the first communication device, the duplex transmission permission information indicating that the first communication device permits a duplex transmission during the TXOP and while the first communication device transmits, wherein the duplex transmission permission information is transmitted to a second communication device via a wireless transmission, and wherein the duplex transmission permission information is included in a media access control layer (MAC) protocol data unit (MPDU), transmit a first packet to the second communication device during the TXOP, wherein the first packet spans a wireless communication channel, receive an acknowledgment packet from the second communication device, wherein the acknowledgment packet acknowledges receipt of the first packet.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving efficiency in duplex transmissions where devices simultaneously transmit and receive on the same frequency band. The problem addressed is the lack of coordination between devices during transmit opportunity periods (TXOPs), leading to inefficiencies and potential collisions. The apparatus includes a network interface device for a first communication device, capable of duplex transmissions. The interface device, implemented with one or more integrated circuits, transmits permission information to a second communication device, indicating that the first device allows duplex transmissions during its TXOP. This permission is sent via a wireless transmission within a media access control (MAC) protocol data unit (MPDU). During the TXOP, the first device transmits a packet to the second device, which spans the wireless channel. The second device acknowledges receipt by sending an acknowledgment packet back to the first device. This coordinated approach enables simultaneous transmission and reception, improving spectral efficiency and reducing latency in wireless networks. The system ensures proper synchronization and avoids interference by explicitly granting duplex transmission permissions within the MAC layer framework.
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June 23, 2020
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